Awards will be given for the biggest fish in each age category — each participant may only weigh one fish, dead or alive.

The annual D.A.R.E. Youth Fishing Tournament will be held by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office on Sept. 13.

"It is a really big deal to the youngsters," said Deputy Glenn Springfield.

Fishing will begin at 7 a.m. and last until 11 a.m. All participants must register before fishing.

The event is open to all children ages 2-12. Participants may fish any public or private waterway within Ouachita Parish and do not need to report to the tournament headquarters before fishing. Bank, pier and private pond fishing are allowed.

Though all participants must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, adults may only cast or assist in landing the fish for participants ages 2-6.

For those who need supplies, Armstrong Cricket Farm will provide fishing poles and bait at the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office rifle range, the tournament headquarters.

Any species of fish may be brought to the weigh-in, which begins at 11 a.m. Fish must have been caught during tournament hours. Awards will be given for the biggest fish in each age category — each participant may only weigh one fish, dead or alive. The awards ceremony begins at 12:30 p.m.

While weighing the fish, the sheriff's office will provide free food, youth activities and door prizes. Participants do not have to catch a fish to be entered into the door prize drawings but must check in at the tournament headquarters and be present to collect the prize.

Alcoholic beverages will not be permitted.

"Last year was a huge success, and we hope this year is even better," Springfield said.